Faith and Life: Readings in Old Princeton Theology 05HT6160 RTS-Houston – Fall 2021 John R
Total Page:16
File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb
Faith and Life: Readings in Old Princeton Theology 05HT6160 RTS-Houston – Fall 2021 John R. Muether ([email protected]) Meeting Dates October 1-2 (Friday and Saturday) December 3-4 (Friday and Saturday) Course Description A survey of the “majestic testimony” of Princeton Theological Seminary from its founding in 1812 to its reorganization in 1929, with readings from major figures including Archibald Alexander, Charles Hodge, Benjamin Warfield, and others. Emphasis will fall on its defense of the Reformed faith against the challenges of its time, its influence on the establishment of American Presbyterian identity, and its role in shaping contemporary American evangelicalism. Course Outline (Subject to Change) 1. Introduction: What was Old Princeton? 2. Archibald Alexander 3. Charles Hodge 4. A. A. Hodge 5. B. B. Warfield 6. Other Voices 7. J. G. Machen 8. Conclusion: The Legacy of Old Princeton Assignments 1. Completion of 1000 pages of reading. (10%) 2. Class presentation on a representative of Old Princeton theology (20%) 3. Research Paper (50%) 4. Class attendance and participation (20%) Readings Students will compile a reading list of primary and secondary sources in consultation with the instructor. It should include 1. Selections from Calhoun and/or Moorhead 2. Readings from at least four members of the Old Princeton faculty 3. At least two selections from both The Way of Life by Charles Hodge and Faith and Life by B. B. Warfield. 4. Resources for their class presentation and research paper. Research Paper The research paper is a 3000-4000 word paper which will explore in depth a particular figure in the story of Old Princeton. (The paper may not exceed 4000 words.) It should reflect a thorough grasp of the relevant primary and secondary source material and assess the subject’s influence in the academy and church and his continuing relevance for our day. This assignment is due on Monday, December 13, 2021, and must be uploaded to Canvas or emailed to the professor. Class Presentation One half hour presentation on the fruits of the student’s research. Some Recommended Texts (fuller bibliography to come) 1. Primary Alexander, Archibald. Thoughts on Religious Experience. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1998. Hodge, Charles. The Way of Life: Christian Belief and Experience. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2020. Noll, Mark A., ed. The Princeton Theology, 1812-1929: Scripture, Science, and Theological Method from Archibald Alexander to Benjamin Breckinridge Warfield. Philipsburg, NJ: P&R 1983. Vos, Geerhardus. Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2020. Warfield, B. B. Faith and Life. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1974 (first published 1916) 2. Secondary Calhoun, David B. Princeton Seminary 2 vol. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1994-1994 Moorhead, James H. Princeton Seminary in American Religion and Culture. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2012. Steward, Gary. Princeton Seminary (1812-1929): The Leaders’ Lives and Works. Philipsburg, NJ: P&R, 2014. Wells, David F., ed. Reformed Theology in America: A History of Its Modern Development. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1985. (See “Part 1: The Princeton Theology”) Course Objectives Related to MDiv* Student Learning Outcomes Course: Faith and Life: Readings in Old Princeton Theology Professor: Muether Campus: Houston Date: Fall 2021 MDiv* Student Learning Outcomes Rubric Mini-Justification In order to measure the success of the MDiv curriculum, RTS has defined the ➢ Strong following as the intended outcomes of the student learning process. Each ➢ Moderate course contributes to these overall outcomes. This rubric shows the ➢ Minimal contribution of this course to the MDiv outcomes. ➢ None *As the MDiv is the core degree at RTS, the MDiv rubric will be used in this syllabus. Articulation Broadly understands and articulates knowledge, both Strong Class discussions and research paper wll aid in the articulation of (oral & oral and written, of essential biblical, theological, theology. written) historical, and cultural/global information, including details, concepts, and frameworks. Scripture Significant knowledge of the original meaning of Moderate Class will study the doctrinal of Scripture. Also, the concepts for and skill to research Scripture and exegetical approach further into the original meaning of Scripture and to of Old Princeton theology.. apply Scripture to a variety of modern circumstances. (Includes appropriate use of original languages and hermeneutics; and integrates theological, historical, and cultural/global perspectives.) Reformed Significant knowledge of Reformed theology and Strong Student will survey the ways the Theology practice, with emphasis on the Westminster Princetonians excelled in defending Standards. and propagating the Reformed faith and their fidelity to the church standards. Sanctification Demonstrates a love for the Triune God that aids the Strong Class will study how the Princeton student’s sanctification. theology gives shape to distinctive features of Reformed piety. Desire for Burning desire to conform all of life to the Word of Moderate The appropriate integration of Worldview God. Reformed faith and practice will be highlighted throughout the course. Winsomely Embraces a winsomely Reformed ethos. (Includes an Moderate The class will discuss how Princeton Reformed appropriate ecumenical spirit with other Christians, engaged winsomely with others especially Evangelicals; a concern to present the even in their polemical works. Gospel in a God-honoring manner to non-Christians; and a truth-in-love attitude in disagreements.) Pastoral Ability to minister the Word of God to the heart and Minimal The class is designed to prepare Ministry lives of both churched and unchurched, to include students to be both theologically preaching, teaching, leading in worship, leading and informed and pastorally effective, shepherding the local congregation, aiding in spiritual both in public and private settings. maturity, concern for non-Christians. .